There are several ways to tell if it is flat. One is to look at the pitch or slope. A roof with a very low pitch is probably flat. The eaves are another good indicator. Generally, flat roofs have very little or no overhang, while pitched roofs will have more prominent eaves. Lastly, flat roofs tend to be simpler in design than pitched roofs. Their contours tend to be straight and geometrical with few decorative features. A professional can tell you whether a roof is pitched or flat.

Flat roofs are popular among commercial and residential buildings for several reasons:

1. Flat roofs are easier to build and less expensive than pitched roofs.
2. They offer more usable space than pitched roofs; this is especially beneficial for commercial buildings that need extra storage space or an outdoor area for employees.
3. Flat roofs are easier to maintain than pitched roofs; they can be cleaned regularly with a power washer.
4. They require less maintenance over time.
5. Since weight is evenly distributed across a flat roof’s surface, flat roofs can handle heavy loads better than pitched roofs.

Therefore, flat roofs make excellent choices for both commercial and residential buildings.

Material choice and maintenance determine the lifespan of a flat roof. Torch applied felt roofs were most common and still are popular. The emergence of Single ply membranes and liquid solutions have given greater life spans. With regular inspections and repairs, all flat roofs can last for many years.

A flat roof is a popular choice for commercial buildings, and for good reason. They are less expensive to install than pitched roofs, and they offer more usable space. The maintenance of flat roofs is more involved than for other types. One of the most important tasks is regular inspection. We would recommend all Flat roofs are inspected at least once a year. By making sure to keep up with regular inspections, you can help to extend the life of your flat roof.

The cost of replacing or repairing a flat roof will depend on many factors, including the size of the roof, the type of materials used, and the specifications. In the UK, the average cost of a new flat roof is £3,000-£5,000. The real cost will vary depending on the specific project. For example, a small repair job may only cost a few hundred pounds, while a complete replacement could cost upwards of £10,000. A detailed estimate can be obtained by consulting with a qualified roofing contractor who can assess the scope of the work and provide a detailed quote.

At Aspect we would first carry out a detailed survey to ensure the correct product and specification is installed. This could include:

New Plywood deck

The roof surface needs to be prepared by removing any existing materials and repairing any damage. The new plywood can then be fixed into position.

Vapour control layer

You need to install a vapour barrier to help prevent moisture from seeping into the roof.

New insulation, tapered insulation to improve roof falls

You’ll need to install a layer of insulation to keep the roof cool in summer and warm in winter. Once the insulation is in place, you can install the roofing membrane. This can be either a single-ply membrane or a built-up roofing system.

Roof coverings i.e single ply, torch on felt ect.

This is the part which keeps the roof watertight, we will ensure the right system is used for your project. This will be discussed during your site survey with our flat roofing specialist.

With careful planning and execution, installing a flat roof can provide many years of service.

1. Extra space for various functions

You can plan and utilize the flat roof to have more space or brighten up your property / workplace or save energy.

2. Guarantees available for up to 25 years.

At Aspect we have long standing relationships with our suppliers, this enables us to supply and install premium flat roofing systems with long guarantees which provides our customer with piece of mind with the quality and service they are receiving.

Below some great ideas:

• Rooftop garden – Gardens are not just an attractive feature, they have a lot of benefits to offer – from reduced stormwater runoff to increased cooling for the building interior.
• Solar Panel is a great option to utilize an unused space and save you money on your energy bills (Here at Aspecte we have qualified installers which can provide you with a free quote for adding solar panels to your property)

3. Faster and less disruptive installation process

Flat roofing systems, in general, take less time to complete. A plain structure means fewer materials and equipment to work with. As a roofing customer and business owner, you’ll be satisfied to know that your daily operations won’t get interrupted and temporarily stopped for days.

4. Solar panel installation

When we compare flat roofs to pitched roofs, flat roofs are the best locations for solar panels. Installing these energy-saving and environmentally-friendly solutions on a flat roof allows you to get the most out of them. You’ll be able to optimize the right solar panel angles. Most of all you maximize the money you spend.